PMS comes with a whole score of symptoms, the majority of which are strong enough to drive even the sanest woman into a frenzy of moodiness, bloating, and even worse - cramps. While there are over the counter medication that can alleviate the pain of cramping related to menstruation a more soothing and indulging alternative has to do with aromatherapy.

The quickest way to make menstrual cramps worse is through excessive physical and emotional stress. Instead of popping a pill and continuing to be stressed out or moody, why not allow your entire being to be relieved and calmed? That’s where aromatherapy comes in. This ancient practice is widely known for using natural herbs and essential oils in order to relax, soothe, and cure common ailments. Cramps are no exception.

Using aromatherapy is not only a great means of getting rid of your cramps, but is ideal for creating a calmer feeling and sense of well being from head to toe. When your whole body is relaxed, chances are your stress and emotional levels will be decreased, preventing future cramps from occurring. The easiest way to go about this method is to make an appointment at your local day sap and sign up for a generous aromatherapy massage. Be sure to let the masseuse know that your cramps are making you uncomfortable and they will center the massage on your abdominal area.

For those of you that enjoy DIY recipes, you can create special massage oil that uses essential oils that work as natural muscle relaxers. The best ones to choose from include ginger, lemon balm, chamomile, marjoram, and lavender. Once you’ve selected your essential oil, mix 2-3 drops with an ounce of either sweet almond or jojoba oil. Then take the mixture and gently massage onto the affected areas. Another similar recipe you can create in the comfort of your own home involves mixing 5 drops of lavender essential oil, 15 drops of peppermint essential oil, 1- drops of cypress essential oil, and 1 ounce of what is known as a carrier oil (this is a base or vegetable oil that is used to properly dilute essential oils), like sweet almond and gently massaging a small amount of the mixture onto your abdominal area. It is important to remember that when dealing with essential oils, you must dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin in order to avoid an allergic reaction.

Another great way to enjoy the affects of aromatherapy to sooth your menstrual cramps is to take a hot bath with a few drops of lavender essential oil. Those few drops alone can transform your bathtub into a soothing way to relax your body and muscles, leaving you refreshed and reinvigorated.

When dealing with aromatherapy and essential oils, it is important to choose the right ingredients that won’t mess with your skin or your health. Women who are pregnant should consult with a professional aromatherapist, who can properly advise them on which essential oils will be safe for use topically and won’t affect the unborn baby.

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